A record number of schools and businesses across the Mid North Coast took part in the 2021 Go Red for Dyslexia Campaign.
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A dynamic student crew rallied support from the community to turn the town red for dyslexia.
The Dyslexia Mid North Coast (DMNC) Youth Ambassador Program was established in 2018.
Students are united by a goal to raise awareness in schools and the community to encourage children with dyslexia to soar.
The program gives young people the opportunity to connect, collaborate and shine through advocacy.
This year 16 schools and 30 businesses held red days or turned their buildings and LED signs red to show support.
The iconic Coffs Coast Big Banana and Tacking Point Lighthouse shone brightly for 1 in 5 children who struggle to read, write and spell.
It was the sixth consecutive year Tacking Point Lighthouse turned red thanks to support from Sunrise Rotary, In Phase Productions and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.
"Students at Heritage Christian School Port Macquarie had the best day wearing red and watching the short movies in classes which has led to some wonderful honest discussions. It is such a positive initiative," said Tiane Mison, Primary Support Learning Manager Heritage Christian School.
Led by program coordinator Sally Blair, the Youth Ambassadors and Rising Stars created a powerful video with a Dyslexia Awareness message highlighting their strengths.
Youngest rising star, Ruby from Coffs Harbour, said "dyslexia won't stop you from doing what you want to do. It actually means you know how to work hard. I am so much more than someone with dyslexia, dysgraphia, autism and PDA. I'm a warrior. I'm determined, and I chase my dreams".
"Our ambassadors promote the hashtag #SayDyslexia to encourage all students to self-advocate and achieve their full potential," said Jenna O'Connell program coordinator.
"While I may take on the role of 'mentor' for our Youth Ambassadors and Rising Stars, I am confident I learn far more from them each year than I give, and am so grateful for the opportunity."
The Youth Ambassador program is open to students aged from 8 years - 12 years as part of the Rising Stars initiative, along with senior Youth Ambassadors (students 12 years+). Applications open in January 2022 visit dyslexiamnc.org.au or follow the group on Facebook.
Special thanks go to Dyslexia Mid North Coast Youth Ambassadors Georgia Ryan, Alex Barnes, Lucas Blair, Blake Herbert, Ruby Belle Gater for another great year promoting awareness.
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